Description
These Baklava Bites are a delightful twist on the classic Middle Eastern dessert, featuring flaky layers of phyllo dough filled with a fragrant mixture of pistachios, walnuts, cinnamon, and sugar. Baked to golden perfection and drizzled with a warm honey syrup infused with vanilla and lemon juice, these bite-sized treats are perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a sweet snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Phyllo Dough and Butter
- 1 package phyllo dough (about 20 sheets), thawed
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
Nut Filling
- 1 cup pistachios, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup walnuts, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup sugar
Honey Syrup
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the finely chopped pistachios, walnuts (if using), ground cinnamon, and sugar. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Prepare the Phyllo Dough: Lightly brush a mini muffin tin with some of the melted butter to prevent sticking. Lay one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean surface and brush it lightly with melted butter. Layer another sheet on top and brush it with butter again. Repeat this layering and buttering process until you have about 6-7 stacked layers of dough.
- Assemble the Baklava Bites: Carefully place each layered square into the muffin cups, gently pressing down to form a cup shape that will hold the filling. Spoon about 1-2 teaspoons of the nut mixture into each phyllo cup, evenly distributing the filling among the cups.
- Bake the Baklava Bites: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the assembled baklava bites in the oven for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the phyllo dough is golden brown and crisp.
- Make the Honey Syrup: While the baklava bites are baking, combine honey, water, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes until the syrup slightly thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the syrup with additional flavor.
- Finish the Baklava Bites: Once the baklava bites are baked and still warm, spoon the warm honey syrup over each piece, ensuring they are well coated and absorb the syrup for maximum sweetness and flavor.
- Serve: Allow the baklava bites to cool slightly so that the syrup sets. Serve them as a delicious, bite-sized dessert at room temperature or slightly warm.
Notes
- You can omit the walnuts if you want a nut mix that is less varied or to accommodate allergies.
- Ensure the phyllo dough is thawed according to package instructions to prevent tearing while handling.
- Brush the phyllo layers gently with butter to maintain delicate, flaky layers without breaking.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain crispness.
- If you prefer a thicker syrup, cook it a bit longer but avoid over-thickening to keep it pourable.
